Robust predictive-model-control strategy for automatic gauge control in hot strip finishing milling

A novel dynamic robust predictive-model-control strategy for the automatic gauge control(AGC) is proposed for the hot strip mill.Limitations of traditional AGC are analyzed based on the spring equation;and the relation between the variable stiffness AGC and the robust control is considered.An H-infinity filter is introduced into the forward-feedback loop of AGC to reject the disturbances caused by stand-vibrations in conveying strips.Meanwhile,the rolling force is predicted based on the prediction property of predictive-model-control(MPC) for optimizing the rolling conditions.Simulation results show the feasibility and validity of the proposed control strategy.